2 research outputs found
Evaluation of a worksite intervention
Get PDFBackground Worksite health promotion programs have been identified as strongly
effective in decreasing body weight and increasing awareness and change in
health behavior. Aim of this study is to determine the effects of a multi-
component intervention in workplace health promotion. Methods In a controlled
study trail, 1,573 workers of a logistics company had the chance to
participate in a one year worksite health promotion program. Main elements of
the multi-component intervention were physical activity training in
combination with nutrition counseling. Employees completed a questionnaire at
baseline and then again after twelve month. Main outcome variables were
changes in body weight and health behaviors. Secondary outcomes were
subjective health indicators. Results Our results showed preliminary
improvements in physical activity and eating behavior among normal weight and
overweight/obesity weight groups. No significant weight reduction could be
found, only a minimal reduction of BMI. The reduction was larger in the
overweight group. Workers considered overweight or obese showed significantly
greater body weight loss and changes in eating behavior than workers with a
normal weight status. Workers with obesity/overweight scored their general
health status significantly lower than their colleagues with normal weight
status. No significant improvements were found for overall perception of
health status between baseline and follow-up in the BMI-groups. Conclusion
This 12-month intervention-control study suggests that a well-implemented
multi-component workplace health promotion program may support substantial
change in health behavior (e.g. nutrition and physical activity). It is
indicated that overweight employees may especially profit from such worksite
health promotion. An investigation of long-term effects of this multi-
component intervention is strongly recommended
